Cheapest Political Science and Government Colleges in Georgia

Savannah State University charges just $8,683 net cost for Political Science and Government students, making it Georgia's most affordable option by nearly $1,500. The state's public universities dominate the affordable end, with 14 of the 15 cheapest programs coming from state institutions. University of Georgia stands out with an 87.20% graduation rate despite its $13,816 net cost, while earnings vary dramatically from $21,781 at University of West Georgia to $35,416 at University of North Georgia. Georgia's political market offers rich opportunities for government majors, with the state capitol in Atlanta housing numerous advocacy groups, lobbying firms, and government agencies that regularly hire entry-level political science graduates. The HOPE Scholarship can cover full tuition at public colleges for students maintaining a 3.0 GPA, making these already affordable programs even more accessible for Georgia residents.

Programs

$8,683 – $36,828

Net Price Range

$30,615

Avg. Program Earnings

50.0%

Avg. Graduation Rate

31 Political Science and Government Programs

Program rankings
#	School	Net Price	In-State Tuition	Graduation Rate	Acceptance Rate
1	Savannah State University Savannah, Georgia	$8,683	$5,498	25.2%
2	Clayton State University Morrow, Georgia	$10,145	$5,068	35.4%	56.3%
3	University of North Georgia Dahlonega, Georgia	$10,785	$5,009	36.8%	69.6%
4	Valdosta State University Valdosta, Georgia	$11,298	$6,007	41.7%	89.5%
5	Fort Valley State University Fort Valley, Georgia	$11,609	$5,392	45.2%	43.1%
6	Georgia Gwinnett College Lawrenceville, Georgia	$11,696	$4,458	19.8%	93.6%
7	Columbus State University Columbus, Georgia	$11,889	$5,751	41.7%	87.8%
8	Georgia Southwestern State University Americus, Georgia	$12,052	$4,980	31.9%	73.2%
9	Augusta University Augusta, Georgia	$13,347	$8,122	48.6%	85.5%
10	University of Georgia Athens, Georgia	$13,816	$11,180	87.2%	42.6%
11	Middle Georgia State University Macon, Georgia	$13,922	$4,432	25.6%	99.7%
12	Albany State University Albany, Georgia	$14,251	$5,934	22.8%
13	Wesleyan College Macon, Georgia	$14,528	$27,650	60.6%	66.8%
14	University of West Georgia Carrollton, Georgia	$15,450	$5,971	42.7%	80.1%
15	Georgia State University Atlanta, Georgia	$15,931	$8,478	53.7%	66.8%
16	Shorter University Rome, Georgia	$16,286	$24,044	37.1%	97.5%
17	Georgia Southern University Statesboro, Georgia	$16,531	$5,905	52.1%	88.9%
18	Kennesaw State University Kennesaw, Georgia	$16,972	$5,786	48.1%	67.9%
19	LaGrange College Lagrange, Georgia	$17,805	$34,540	41.8%	59.1%
20	Georgia College & State University Milledgeville, Georgia	$18,809	$8,998	61.6%	80.0%
21	Piedmont University Demorest, Georgia	$20,893	$30,680	41.5%	64.4%
22	Berry College Mount Berry, Georgia	$21,568	$40,416	73.9%	66.3%
23	Oglethorpe University Atlanta, Georgia	$21,735	$45,806	53.9%	71.0%
24	Mercer University Macon, Georgia	$22,350	$40,890	73.4%	74.7%
25	Emory University Atlanta, Georgia	$23,911	$60,774	91.8%	11.4%
26	Agnes Scott College Decatur, Georgia	$24,224	$48,150	70.5%	66.5%
27	Covenant College Lookout Mountain, Georgia	$24,832	$40,464	71.9%	84.1%
28	Reinhardt University Waleska, Georgia	$27,769	$28,420	35.6%	62.3%
29	Clark Atlanta University Atlanta, Georgia	$35,115	$26,446	47.8%	56.3%
30	Morehouse College Atlanta, Georgia	$35,949	$31,725	52.7%	60.0%
31	Spelman College Atlanta, Georgia	$36,828	$30,058	76.1%	28.4%

Frequently Asked Questions

What explains the $27,042 earnings gap between the highest and lowest-paying programs?

University of North Georgia graduates earn $35,416 annually while University of West Georgia graduates start at $21,781. Geographic location plays a significant role, as schools closer to Atlanta's business district typically see higher starting salaries. Career paths also vary widely, from local government positions to federal agency roles that command different compensation levels.

How does the University of Georgia justify its higher cost compared to other state schools?

UGA charges $13,816 net cost but delivers an 87.20% graduation rate, far above the state average. Graduates earn $34,908 annually with just $17,625 in debt, creating a strong return on investment. The flagship university's political science program connects students directly to state government internships and alumni networks throughout Georgia's political establishment.

Is Wesleyan College worth considering despite being the only private school in this range?

Wesleyan College costs $14,528 net with a 60.60% graduation rate, positioning it between affordable state schools and flagship pricing. As a women's college, it offers unique leadership development opportunities in political science. The small class sizes and specialized programs may justify the premium for students seeking personalized attention in their political studies.

Does the HOPE Scholarship significantly impact these costs for Georgia residents?

HOPE covers full tuition at public universities for students with 3.0+ GPAs, reducing costs dramatically. For example, Clayton State's in-state tuition of $5,068 could drop to just room, board, and fees with HOPE funding. This makes schools like Savannah State even more attractive, as the scholarship can cover most educational expenses beyond living costs.

Where do most Political Science graduates find employment in Georgia?

Atlanta serves as the primary job market, housing state government offices, federal agencies, and numerous nonprofits seeking political science graduates. The film industry's growth has created new government relations positions, while the expanding logistics sector needs regulatory compliance specialists. Graduates also find opportunities in county governments across Georgia's 159 counties, particularly in rapidly growing suburban areas around Atlanta.

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Net price reflects the average cost after grants and scholarships for first-time, full-time students. See our methodology for details.